Off-trail touring gets serious with the Rossignol XP 85. This metal-edged backcountry ski sits in the lighter end of the XP lineup, pairing a low-density wood core, a waxless scaled base, and full steel edges for the versatility to handle on-trail kick-and-glide and ungroomed exploration in the same outing. The result is a ski that climbs efficiently without skins for moderate terrain, holds an edge when the snow firms up, and still feels light enough underfoot for longer days.

Why we like it:

The aftermarket kicker skin connector built into the topsheet above the scales is a genuinely useful touch, letting you slap on a half-skin when the climbing turns steep instead of committing to a full-base skin. The Positrack scale pattern also stands out for grip without the zipping sound or drag of cheaper waxless bases.

Who it's for:

Intermediate to advanced classic-style tourers who want a true off-trail ski that doesn't punish them on the way to the trailhead. Skiers who like rolling backcountry terrain, packed forest roads, and broken trails will find this one a sweet spot. Also a strong pick for skiers transitioning from groomed XC into ungroomed exploration.

Highlights:

The Low Density Core uses a wood foundation with internal air channels to drop swing weight without giving up snap, and it's wrapped in fiberglass for torsional stability. Activ'Cap construction trims weight at the edges of the ski while keeping torsional rigidity where it matters underfoot. Full-length steel edges turn this into a real downhill tool, not just a touring ski; you can sidehill firmer snow and lay over a turn without the edges washing out. The Positrack waxless base climbs reliably across temperature swings, and the R-Skin Free connector built into the topsheet accepts an optional aftermarket half-skin for steeper climbs. Comes paired with the Xplore binding, Rossignol's modern backcountry connection that offers more lateral stability than older 75mm or NNN-BC systems.

Things to consider:

The XP 85 is the narrowest ski in the Xplore-equipped backcountry lineup; if your routes regularly involve deep, untracked snow, the XP 105 or XP 120 will float better. Skiers who never plan to leave the groomed trails will find this ski heavier and slower than a dedicated trail ski like the Evo XC series.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Sizes follow Rossignol's standard backcountry length-by-weight chart. Stick with what the chart calls for if you ski mixed terrain; bumping up a length adds glide and float for sustained off-trail days, while dropping a length improves maneuverability in trees and tight turns.